Botryogen
A variety of Minerals
What is Botryogen?
Botryogen is a hydrous magnesium sulfate mineral with formula: MgFe(SO4)2(OH)·7H2O. It is also known as quetenite. It crystallizes in the monoclinic prismatic system and typically occurs as vitreous bright yellow to red botryoidal to reniform masses and radiating crystal prisms. It has a specific gravity in the range 2 to 2.1 and Mohs hardness in the range of 2 to 2.5. It occurs in arid climates as a secondary alteration product of pyrite-bearing deposits. It was first described in 1828 for an occurrence in the Falu mine of Falun, Dalarna, Sweden. It was named for its grape like appearance from Greek botrys for "bunch of grapes" and genos meaning "to bear".
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Botryogen before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Botryogen Localities Map
See where Botryogen is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Light to dark orange-red; pale to dark orange
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 2.23 g/cm³
- Streak
- Ocher-yellow
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- MgFe3+(SO4)2(OH) · 7H2O
- Elements
- Fe, H, Mg, O, S
Also Known As
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Botryogen FAQs
How do I identify Botryogen?
Botryogen can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Light to dark orange-red; pale to dark orange color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Botryogen?
Botryogen typically appears in Light to dark orange-red; pale to dark orange. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Botryogen?
Botryogen has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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